Oprah responds to claims about keeping private road closed during Hawaii tsunami evacuation
**Tsunami Hits Hawaii After 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake in Russia**
Tsunami waves have struck Hawaii following an 8.8-magnitude earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. Residents were urged to evacuate to higher ground, leading to chaotic traffic as people fled. Amid the crisis, rumors spread that Oprah Winfrey refused to open her private road to assist evacuees.
**Social Media Backlash Against Oprah**
Online outrage erupted after a viral video claimed Winfrey’s gated road in Maui remained closed, trapping evacuees. The clip showed a long line of cars, with one man saying, “We’re stuck, and a tsunami is coming.” Critics accused the media mogul of prioritizing privacy over public safety.
**Global Tsunami Impact**
The earthquake triggered warnings across the Pacific, with waves reaching California and Japan. In Russia, buildings were damaged, while Japan evacuated over two million people. No casualties have been reported so far.
**Clarifications on Oprah’s Road**
Reports later confirmed that Thompson Road, which runs through Winfrey’s property, is publicly accessible. The Maui Police Department stated the road was open for evacuation, contradicting earlier claims.
**Oprah’s Spokesperson Responds**
Winfrey’s team denied the allegations, stating they coordinated with authorities to open the road immediately after the tsunami warning. Police managed traffic, allowing 50 cars at a time for safety.
**Public Reaction Shifts**
After initial fury, updates confirmed the road was accessible, with some crediting public pressure for the swift response. Community notes on social media corrected misinformation about the situation.
**Ongoing Tsunami Precautions**
As the crisis continues, emergency measures remain in place across the Pacific. Officials urge residents to follow evacuation orders and verified updates. Thoughts remain with those affected by the disaster.
